About this sheet
Basilius Besler Spurge, Glasswort & Pennywort Botanical Engraving, 1613
Original antique hand-colored copper engraving from Basilius Besler’s celebrated Hortus Eystettensis, published in Eichstätt and Nuremberg in 1613.
This magnificent botanical plate depicts three plants identified beneath the image as:
I. Cataputia vulgaris
II. Parietaria sylvestris
III. Nummularia
Traditionally described as spurge, glasswort and pennywort, the plants are presented on a monumental scale, with the large central specimen surrounded by two more delicate flowering plants. The composition combines remarkably precise botanical observation with the decorative elegance for which Besler’s work is renowned.
Basilius Besler (1561–1629) was a Nuremberg apothecary and botanist. His Hortus Eystettensis was created to document the extraordinary gardens of Johann Konrad von Gemmingen, Prince-Bishop of Eichstätt, at Willibaldsburg. First published in 1613, the work is considered one of the greatest achievements in botanical illustration and one of the most spectacular natural history books of the 17th century.
A particularly attractive impression with strong, fresh hand coloring. Text is printed on the verso and is faintly visible through the paper.
Artist: Basilius Besler (1561–1629)
Work: Hortus Eystettensis
Place: Eichstätt and Nuremberg
Date: 1613
Medium: Hand-colored copper engraving
Plate size: approximately 48 x 40 cm (18.9 x 15.7 inches)
Sheet size: approximately 51.2 x 42.8 cm (20.2 x 16.9 inches)
Condition:
Very good antique condition. A strong impression with fresh and vibrant coloring. The sheet is slightly age-toned, with minor spotting and signs of age. Minimal losses and irregularities along the right margin. Text on verso. Please study the images carefully.
Original antique print, more than 400 years old. Not a modern reproduction.
Sold unframed.
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